FIFA Confederations Cup: Spain to face Brazil in the final

Tournament favourites Spain set up a clash with Brazil in the Confederations Cup final after a thrilling 7-6 penalty shoot-out victory against Italy in Fortaleza on Thursday. Spain substitute Jesus Navas converted the decisive penalty kick after Italy defender Leonardo Bonucci missed from the spot. Italy played a great tactical game and dominated the field for most of the match but they were unable to convert their scoring chances. Emanuele Giaccherini hit the post in extra-time, while at the other end goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon pushed Xavi's shot on to the upright. The first 12 penalty shots were converted before Bonucci blazed his kick over the bar. New Manchester City signing Jesus Navas had the chance to wrap up the proceedings and he made no mistake from the spot, placing Spain in the final against host nation Brazil, who won their semi final 2-1 against Uruguay. Italy had the best chances in the first half, they kept a compact defence and launched vicious counter attacks whenever they had the opportunity. Italy right back Christian Maggio had a great performance in the first half, always causing trouble on his flank, but he squandered three good chances while creating another couple for Alberto Gilardino and Claudio Marchisio, who missed as well. Things didn't change much after the break, Italy still seemed in control and they came close again through Marchisio, blocked by Pique, and Giorgio Chiellini, who headed Pirlo's corner just over. Spain replied through Pique, whose shot was blocked, Sergio Ramos and then Xavi whose precise long shot was pushed onto the post by Buffon. The game went to the penalty shoot-out and all but one, Bonucci's, were taken almost perfectly. Spain will face Brazil in the final on Sunday, here are the odds for the match at Bet365: Brazil win - 8/5 Draw - 23/10 Spain win - 17/10